Choosing An Outfit for Your Professional Dating Portrait Photography Session in Utah
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As a Utah dating profile photographer, I’ve worked with clients from all over the Wasatch Front looking for photos to make their dating profiles stand above the crowd. Your images are one of the first things people see when your profile appears, so you should have a variety of top-tier images!
Recently, I had the chance to work with “E” on the west side of Salt Lake County. His story is different from many of my past clients because this was his very first time getting on dating apps. As a busy man, he wanted to put his best foot forward right away. After all, most people who use dating apps are hoping to get off of them as quickly as possible, so why start with subpar photos? His session became the perfect example of how combining location variety with wardrobe variety creates a recipe for success.
Why What You Wear Matters in Dating Profile Photography
When you’re creating a dating app profile, your photos are the very first impression someone has of you. Before they ever read your bio, they’re looking at your pictures and making a snap decision, often in less than a second, about whether they want to learn more.
That’s why variety is everything. If every photo looks like it was taken in the same outfit, on the same day, with the same background, your profile won’t hold someone’s attention. People scroll past quickly, so you want each image to show a slightly different side of you. That’s where wardrobe preparation comes in.
I always tell my clients one thing before their dating portrait session:
“We can’t shoot it if you don’t bring it.”
This is the golden rule of dating profile photography. You don’t want to limit yourself to only two or three outfits. Instead, bring options, even more than you think you’ll need. It’s far better to bring too much than not enough, because once we’re shooting, you’ll want the flexibility to mix and match.
Portrait Session
Starting at $225
- Session typically lasts 60 minutes
- 50-100+ edited images
- $100 non-refundable deposit to book
- Remainder due the day before the session
- Travel fees applicable if 35+ miles from West Jordan
My Recommended Wardrobe Checklist for Dating Portrait Sessions
Over the years, I’ve refined my advice down to a simple list of what to bring for a dating profile photoshoot:
- 6 tops – Aim for a mix of casual, smart-casual, and one slightly more polished option. Think t-shirts, button-downs, tank tops, sweaters, flannels, jackets, or blouses depending on your style and the season.
- 2–3 bottoms – Jeans, chinos, or skirts/pants depending on your vibe. Having a couple of different bottoms gives us more options than you’d think.
- 2 pairs of shoes – Footwear changes the mood of an outfit completely. A pair of clean sneakers and a pair of dressier shoes go a long way.
- Accessories – This is where personality comes in. Hats, watches, jewelry, headbands, belts, or even glasses can give you something to interact with during the shoot and help highlight your individuality.
When “E” showed up to his session, he brought multiple outfits and accessories. That gave us the flexibility to rotate outfits and make his gallery look dynamic. One location plus several outfits equals dozens of distinct photos that feel like they were taken on different days.
Why Variety Is King on Dating Apps
Your dating profile is like your portfolio. The first impression happens in an instant, and if someone doesn’t feel intrigued enough to keep scrolling, they’ll move on to the next person.
Variety keeps people engaged. Maybe one photo shows you dressed casually outdoors, another shows you in a slightly dressier look in a more urban setting, and another captures you laughing in a candid moment. Together, those photos give potential matches a three-dimensional view of who you are.
If all six of your photos look like they were taken in the same shirt, in the same location, you lose that sense of depth and personality. Even if the photos are technically great, they won’t tell a compelling story. And dating apps are all about telling your story visually.
That’s why I would always rather have clients bring too much than too little. Worst case scenario, we don’t use every outfit you brought. Best case? You walk away with a gallery of images that make your dating profile impossible to ignore.
Behind the Scenes with “E”’s Utah Dating Photo Session
For “E,” we discussed several possible locations and landed on a spot on the west side of Salt Lake County that offered exactly what we needed: a mix of nature and urban elements, greenery alongside city textures. This variety gave his photos dimension and personality, and paired with his different wardrobe options, it was a recipe for success.
Like many people stepping in front of a professional camera for the first time (or the first time in years), “E” was nervous. But that didn’t last long. Once we started shooting, we were laughing, chatting, and keeping the mood easygoing and fun. That’s always my goal as a dating app photographer: to make the camera feel less intimidating so my clients can relax and show their authentic selves.
Because of the combination of diverse backdrops, multiple wardrobe choices, and a relaxed atmosphere, “E” walked away with a gallery that feels confident, approachable, and true to him. For someone just starting out on dating apps, that confidence is everything.
Why Professional Dating Photos Are Worth the Investment
Some people wonder if hiring a photographer for dating apps is “too much.” But here’s the truth: if you’re serious about finding meaningful connections, investing in your profile is one of the smartest steps you can take.
Your dating profile photos are a reflection of how seriously you’re taking your dating journey. High-quality, authentic, professional images show that you’ve put thought and care into how you present yourself. That instantly sets you apart from blurry selfies and group shots where no one knows who’s who.
And whether you’re brand-new to online dating, returning to the apps after a divorce, or a long-time user who just needs to refresh your photos, it’s never a bad time to book a photoshoot.
Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Dating Profile Photoshoot
If you’re considering booking your own session, here are my top tips to maximize your results:
- Bring more than you think you’ll need. You won’t regret having too many options, but you will regret not having enough.
- Mix casual and dressier pieces. Show different sides of your personality. A t-shirt and jeans works great alongside a polished button-down or blouse.
- Don’t forget shoes and accessories. They make a big difference and give you something to interact with.
- Choose outfits you actually wear. Authenticity matters. If you never wear suits, you don’t need one in your photos. If you love hiking, bring gear that reflects that.
- Trust the process. My job is to guide you through posing and prompts so you feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera.
Stand Out on Dating Apps with Karisa Marie Photography
One of my passions at Karisa Marie Photography is helping people show up authentically and confidently in their online dating profile. Your profile is your first impression, and variety is the secret to making that impression count. With the right wardrobe, locations, and professional guidance, you can completely change the way your profile is perceived, and in turn, the kinds of connections you make.
When you book a dating portrait session with Karisa Marie Photography, you’re investing in yourself and your future. You’re saying to the world: I’m serious about my dating journey.
Whether you’re in Salt Lake City, Utah County, or anywhere along the Wasatch Front, I’d love to help you create a profile that gets noticed for all the right reasons.
Ready to take the next step? Let’s upgrade your dating profile together. Reach out today to book your Utah dating portrait session!
